South Africa’s best 101 Weekends away

Gather your family, your friends, your soul mate, your dog. Pack your tents, hiking boots, cameras, costumes, fishing rods, bikes, 4x4s, bird books, binos and yoga mat – we’ve got them all covered. Here are 101 ideas for almost two years’ worth of weekends away. Inspired? We think you might be.

JUSTIN FOX, SENIOR PHOTOJOURNALIST

Didima, uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park, with your daypack
San-themed Didima is a delightful lodge to base yourself at if you’re hiking in the Berg, particularly if you’re doing short day walks in the foothills. Do take a guided tour of the rock-art sites.
Tel 033-845-1000 or visit the web http://www.kznwildlife.com.

Tshukudu, Pilanesberg, with binoculars
Tshukudu Bush Lodge is a small, luxury camp with the best setting in Pilanesberg National Park. It has cliff-edge chalets with luxurious interiors, each with a sunken bath and fireplace. The views from this eyrie are breathtaking.
Tel 011-806-6888 or web http://www.legacyhotels.co.za.

Elands Bay with a surfboard
The craggy headland of Baboon Point on the Cape West Coast creates its own peninsula; in its lee lies the little town of Elands Bay. There you’ll find the best left point break in the Western Cape, and if you don’t mind icy water, this is the spot to ride a legendary wave.
Tel 022-972-1640 or e-mail info@elandsbay.co.za.

Mapungubwe with an archaeologist
Mapungubwe is an ancient stone citadel that pre-dates Great Zimbabwe. It’s the centrepiece of a new transfrontier park. In the valley you’ll find archaeological evidence of the huts and camps of commoners, while up on the summit are the remains of the royal dwellings.
Tel 012-428-9111 or web http://www.sanparks.org/parks/mapungubwe.

Darling with a sense of humour
An hour north of Cape Town, Darling is the country retreat of Evita Bezuidenhout, doyenne of South African satire and a national treasure in her own right. Visit the town and enjoy one of Tannie Evita’s hilarious shows.
Stay at Waylands, a working farm with a small wildflower reserve. Tel 022-492-2873 or e-mail jduckitt@mweb.co.za.

Double Mouth with a tent
Set among casuarinas on the southern Wild Coast, Double Mouth is one of the prettiest spots you could wish to pitch a tent.
Tel 043-736-9909 or e-mail leighelcnr@mweb.co.za.

Montagu with a bottle of sweet wine
For a sleepy Cape dorp, Montagu has plenty for visitors: explore the nature garden (with its wide variety of vygies) or try out the walking, 4×4 and cycling trails as well as the wine (and brandy) routes – the dessert wine there is exceptional.
Best-kept secret is the Bloupunt mountain hut. Book through Montagu Tourism on 023-614-2471. Or stay at Mimosa, an elegant Edwardian lodge. Tel 023-614-2351 or web http://www.mimosa.co.za.

Sodwana with mask and fins
Sodwana offers some of the best diving in South Africa… and the water is mercifully warm year round. In summer there’s the added bonus of whale sharks and nesting turtles.
Stay at Coral Divers. Tel 035-571-0290 or web http://www.coraldivers.co.za.

Maputo, Mozambique, with a desire to party
Maputo is a bustling port city with a laid-back tropical atmosphere. Nights can get hot and steamy. Try the Feira Popular for an evening of dancing, or one of the trendy new clubs, such as Coconuts.
Stay at the grande dame of Mozambican hotels, the Polana. Tel 011-465-0808 or web http://www.polanahotel.com.

Wupperthal with a 4×4
The rocky Wupperthal 4×4 route is based at the Cederberg’s quaint Rhenish mission station (well-known for its veldskoens and rooibos tea).
Contact the tourism office for guesthouses, tel 027-492-3410 or web http://www.tourismwupperthal.co.za.

DON PINNOCK, ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Costa do Sol, Maputo, Mozambique, with a taste for prawns
This is the place that invented the LM prawn. You can park on the Stoep restaurant overlooking the languid Indian Ocean while being fed clams, prawns, fresh fish and much more, washed down with a good Portuguese ros. There are rooms above the restaurant and self-catering chalets on the beach.
Tel +121-450-115 or e-mail rcs@teledata.mz.

Great Fish Point lighthouse, near Port Alfred, with a feeling for wild beauty
It’s east of Port Alfred and flashes its light over a milkwood forest and endless beaches. The light keeper’s house has been converted into comfortable accommodation.
Tel 021-449-2400 or 083-375-1492, e-mail salato@npa.co.za or web http://www.npa.co.za.

Baviaanskloof with a tent
The road into the kloof near Port Elizabeth is challenging, but when you get to the camp sites at Rooihoek and Doodsklip, you just know it’s all been worth it.
Camp, or there’s also the Bergplaas hut which sleeps 12. To book call the Eastern Cape Parks Board on tel 043-742-4450, e-mail reservations@ecparks.co.za or web http://www.ecparks.co.za.

Tsitsikamma Trail with a light pack
The most important thing about this scenic five-day trail is that it’s slackpacking – the parks transport your heavy stuff from hut to hut.
Tel 042-281-1712, cell 072-704-5640 or e-mail gpi@mpo.co.za.

Wupperthal with an open heart
Visiting this little Moravian village in the heart of the Cederberg is like stepping back 100 years.
Tel 027-492-3410 or web http://www.tourismwupperthal.co.za.

Cape Columbine with a kayak
The cold Atlantic swirls and sucks around giant granite boulders topped with seals and birds on one of South Africa’s most beautiful coastlines.
Tel 082-926-2267 or e-mail info@ratrace.co.za. Camping, tel 022-752-2718.

Orange River with a paddle
Kayaking the Orange is just one of those things you cannot not do. The river is like a warm, brown creature slithering through the desert towards the sea.
Costs vary. Contact Gravity on tel 021-683-3690 or e-mail adventure@gravity.co.za; Felix Unite on tel 021-404-1830 or e-mail info@felixunite.com and Wild Thing on tel 021-552-7753 or e-mail info@wildthing.co.za.

Lesheba Wilderness, Soutpansberg, with a book
As delightful, easy-going, far-from-it-all getaways go, this is hard to beat.
Tel 015-593-0076 or 011-646-6727, e-mail magic@lesheba.co.za or web http://www.lesheba.co.za.

Citrusdal Baths with a costume
There’s nothing quite like soaking your cares away in a hot spring, especially on a winter’s day. It’s even better if it’s raining. When the weather turns foul, the baths are the place to head for. There aren’t many places you can say that about.
Tel 022-921-8026.

Red Stone Hills with good wine
Between Oudtshoorn and Calitzdorp in the Little Karoo are some cottages nestled beneath weird red mountains that make you wonder why anyone lives in a city. They’re self catering, but if you need food, Petro Potgieter will make it for you.
Tel 044-213-3783, e-mail redstone@pixie.co.za or web http://www.redstone.co.za.

JAZZ KUSCHKE, PHOTOJOURNALIST

Cape St Francis Resort with a surfboard
Surf the sand bars along the beautiful beach just over the dune from your camp site, or walk 300 metres for a session at the fabled Seal Point – spoilt really.
Tel 042-298-0054, e-mail seals@iafrica.com or web http://www.capestfrancis.co.za.

Dwarsberg, Du Toit’s Kloof, with fly-fishing tackle
Dwarsberg Trout Haven lies deep within the Stettynskloof valley outside Rawsonville. It’s a spectacular place to fly-fish for wild rainbow trout in the Holsloot River.
Tel 023-349-1919, e-mail info@trouthaven.co.za or web http://www.trouthaven.co.za.

Tweedetol camp site, Limietberg Nature Reserve, with your mates
At the bottom of Bain’s Kloof Pass and beside the Witte River, is Tweede Tol camp site, semi-secret hideout of Stellenbosch students bunking classes and other mountain-loving campers.
Tel 021-483-2949, e-mail hothol@cnc.org.za or web http://www.capenature.co.za.

Mateke Game Farm, Waterberg, with your family
Hike, mountain bike or 4×4 in the lush bush of the Kransberg area near Thabazimbi. There’s a variety of accommodation and we recommend the self-catering wooden tree houses at the River Camp.
Tel Anvie Ventures on 021-662-1140, e-mail anvie@xsinet.co za or web http://www.anvieventures.co.za.

Mac Mac Forest Retreat, outside Sabie, with a 4×4
There is a variety of forest, pine plantation and mountain off-road routes at Mac Mac. All are flexible, depending on your vehicle (soft-roaders welcome), skill level and needs (from one-day to five-day expeditions).
Tel 013-764-2376, e-mail info@macmac.co.za or web http://www.macmac.co.za.

Roc ‘n Rope, Waterval Boven, with carabiners
Pack your ropes and go ‘rock out’ near Waterval Boven, one of South Africa’s top sport climbing destinations. Stay in Roc ‘n Rope’s vibey self-catering Chteau en Espagne and hang out with like-minded folk. There are routes for beginners and experienced climbers.
Tel 082-753-3695, e-mail climb@rocrope.com or web http://www.rocrope.com.

Orangekloof Trail, Table Mountain, with hiking boots
This two-day, 21-kilometre slackpacking hike from Silvermine to the cable car forms part of the Hoerikwaggo Trails on Table Mountain. What a privilege to be able to sleep in a tented camp on top of Cape Town’s iconic mountain.
Tel 021-465-8515, e-mail patricia@sanparks.org or web http://www.hoerikwaggotrails.co.za.

Bakgatla, Pilanesberg, with binocs
Think the Pilanesberg is out of your budget range? Stay at Bakgatla, one of the Golden Leopard Resorts, at the foot of the pretty Garamoga Hills.
Tel 014-555-1000, e-mail goldres@iafrica.com or web http://www.goldenleopard.co.za.

Hogsback with a mountain bike
Let your mountain bike be your magic carpet. Take a ride through the enchanted world of tall forests and tricky trails in the Amatole mountains near Hogsback. Then return for some pampering at the Hogsback Arminel Hotel.
Tel 045-962-1005, e-mail reservations@katleisure.co.za or web http://www.katleisure.co.za.

The Fernery, Garden Route, with your lover
Whisk that special person away for a weekend of luxury and love in the Tsitsikamma fynbos. River-side wooden chalets each have their own private deck offering mountain, river and sea views.
Tel 042-280-3588 or web http://www.forestferns.co.za.

DAVID BRISTOW, EDITOR

Cathedral Peak, uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park, with hiking boots
There are so many choices in the Berg, but if you narrow it down there’s Giant’s Castle camp, Tendele and then Cathedral Peak, my first love in the Drakensberg. It’s the gateway to Didima Gorge, the world’s greatest outdoor rock art gallery.
Cathedral Peak Hotel is about the deepest you can get into the mountains without getting out of bed. Tel 036-488-1888, e-mail info@cathedralpeak.co.za or web http://www.cathedralpeak.co.za. Other options are Didima Camp, an architecturally daring cluster of self-catering units or the camp site at the foot of Mike’s Pass and surrounded by poplar trees. Contact KZN Wildlife, tel 036-488-8000, e-mail info@kznwildlife.com or web http://www.kznwildlife.com.

Mabibi with mask and fins
Two options here are the fabulous Thonga Beach Lodge (for that romantic weekend), or the wonderfully rustic camp site next door. This is the Zululand coast at its very best.
Tel Isibindi Africa on 035-474-1473, e-mail res@isibindiafrica.co.za or web http://www.isibindiafrica.co.za.

The Post House, Greyton, with your lover
In the realms of fantasyland, this place is right up there with the best (its particular theme is Beatrix Potter). If you’re looking for charming, this place is superlative. You’ll be sure to score big points.
Tel 028-254-9995, e-mail info@posthouse.co.za or web http://www.posthouse.co.za.

Bulwer with a paraglider
Take off, fly, soar over the rolling KZN Midlands and all the way to the Drakensberg. Your only place to stay is the kind of cookey Mountain Park Hotel.
Tel 039-832-0026, e-mail mjward@futurenet.co.za or web http://www.wheretostay.co.za/mountainpark.htm.

Arniston with a camera
Another weekend favourite masquerading as a traditional fishing village. Being on the Cape’s south coast, though, you can also swim and surf.
There’re self-catering cottages, B&Bs, guesthouses and the Arniston Hotel, which has recently been refurbished.

Zinkwazi with canoe and surfboard
This ‘place of the fish eagles’ is not well known for its water activities, which makes it just so much the better. Zinkwazi Beach is set right on the lagoon. It offers a good restaurant on site.
Tel 032-485-3344, e-mail info@zinkwazilagoonlodge.co.za or web http://www.zinkwazilagoonlodge.co.za.

Grootvadersbosch, near Heidelberg, with your mountain bike
Mountains, an overnight hike, Afro-montane forest, fynbos, river with rock pools and thee, my mountain bike, in the wilderness.
Tel 028-425-5020, e-mail bredasdorp@capenature.co.za or web http://www.capenature.co.za.

Paternoster with a good book
It’s way outgrown its origins as a poor fishing village, although the fishing goes on. This West Coast idyll is best for doing not much at all. Or taking long, lonely walks to forever. The Oystercatcher was rated by Wine magazine as the best weekend getaway anywhere.
The Oystercatcher, tel 022-752-2193, e-mail info@oystercatchershaven or web http://www.oystercatchershaven.com. The Blue Dolphin, tel 022-752-2001, e-mail bluedolphin@mweb.co.za or web http://www.bluedolphin.co.za.

Kruger National Park with your kids and binoculars
Go in summer, with all your anti-mozzie muti, to see birds galore. There’s more than enough to entertain the young ones (book at a camp site with a pool).
Conservation fee is R30. Tel 012-428-9111, e-mail reservations@sanparks.org or web http://www.sanparks.org.

Whipstock Farm, McGregor Valley, with lots of time
A real secret that needs to come out – walks, bike rides, food, wine, friends, farm animals, lots of fun. Go alone, with your partner or the whole fan-damily.
Tel 023-625-1733, e-mail whipstock@netactive.co.za or web http://www.whipstock.za.net.SCOTT RAMSAY, PHOTOJOURNALIST

Ponta Mamoli, Mozambique, with scuba gear
This chilled-out beach lodge has exclusive access to Pinnacles, one of the best shark dive sites in Africa, where you’ll see a wide variety of other sea life.
Tel 011-444-3260, e-mail bookings@pontamamoli.com or web http://www.pontamamoli.com.

Groot Winterhoek with a 4×4
In the heat of summer, there are rock pools and waterfalls in which to cool off. In the icy winters, you can huddle up next to a log fire in Die Tronk, a mountain-top cottage accessible only with a pair of hiking boots or 4×4.
Tel 022-931-2900, e-mail bduplessis@capenature.co.za or web http://www.capenature.co.za.

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe with friends
Raft some of the world’s most exciting rapids, view one of Africa’s wonders, drink Zambezi beer and bungi jump 110 metres off the Vic Falls bridge.
Contact Getaway Travel on tel 0860-43-8292, e-mail info.getaway@galileosa.co.za or web http://www.getawaytravel.co.za.

Tankwa Karoo National Park with a camera
This arid, expansive landscape near Ceres explodes with flowers in August every year. With a 4×4 you can reach a variety of viewpoints.
Tel 012-428-9111, e-mail letsiec@sanparks.org or web http://www.sanparks.org/parks/tankwa.

Richtersveld with a blow-up mattress
Lie on top of a Land Rover on the banks of the Orange River and reach out to touch the galaxies above, while the rocky desert mountains stand guard during the moonless night.
Tel 012-428-9111, e-mail richtersveld@sanparks.org or web http://www.sanparks.org/parks/richtersveld.

Langebaan Houseboat with a kayak
When the sun shines and the wind doesn’t blow, the houseboats at Kraal Bay on Langebaan Lagoon near Cape Town are priceless. The isolation, pristine scenery and clear blue water are trippy.
Tel 021-689-9718, e-mail langebaanhouseboats@mweb.co.za or web http://www.houseboating.co.za.

Mdumbi Backpackers with your dog
The isolated backpackers on a lonely Wild Coast beach is the first place to go if ‘nothing’ is on your list of things to do – besides watching your dog run free and hanging with some mates.
Tel Mdumbi on 047-575-0437, e-mail mdumbi@mdumbi.co.za or web http://www.mdumbi.co.za.

Battlefields with a battlefields expert
Stay at Fugitives Drift Lodge in northern Kwa-Zulu-Natal with battlefields raconteur David Rattray and learn about the fascinating Anglo Zulu wars in the late 1800s. Rattray will take you to nearby Isandhlwana, where the British forces took a pounding from the Zulus, and Rorke’s Drift, the site of their resolute defence.
Tel 034-642-1843, e-mail info@fugitivesdrift.com or web http://www.fugitives-drift-lodge.com.

Letaba Camp, Kruger National Park with your family
Somehow things seem simpler and clearer when you wake at sunrise. The roar of a lion and the bellicose grunts of hippos are sounds every family should experience together at least once.
Tel 012-428-9111, e-mail reservations@sanparks.org or web http://www.sanparks.org/parks/kruger.

Mountain Mist, Aurora, with a book and your soul mate
From the top of Kapteinskop mountain, isolated log cabins look out over the best view on the West Coast. The fynbos is thick and redolent, and all there is to do is swim in the rock pool, read your book and talk about life.
Tel 022-952-1750, e-mail book@mountainmist.co.za or web http://www.mountainmist.co.za.

GILLIAN SCOBLE, NEWS EDITOR

Houseboats, Chobe, Lake Jozini, Vaal River, Knysna Lagoon, with a sense of adventure
They say a weekend on the water is worth two on the land. My favourite houseboat, because of its location on the Chobe River, is the Ichobezi in Namibia/Botswana (http://www.ichobezi.co.za). Other recommended luxury houseboats are the Shayamanzi on Lake Jozini in KwaZulu-Natal (http://www.shayamanzi.co.za) and the Pride of the Zambezi on the Zambezi River in Zambia (http://www.prideofthezambezi.com). If you want the freedom of captaining your own boat, book with Old Willow No 7 houseboats on the Vaal River (http://www.oldwillow.co.za) or Lightleys on the Knysna Lagoon (http://www.houseboats.co.za).

Rapunzel’s Castle, Clarens, with your imagination
It’s a fairytale come true. Create your own fantasy world as you gaze at the serene Maluti mountains and the fabulous dcor.
Tel 082-046-80642 or web http://www.castleinclarens.co.za.

Swaziland with a need for variety
If you haven’t yet been to Swaziland, you’re missing out on a super-cool African gem of a destination, only about four hours drive from Joburg and Durban. There’s plenty to do, such as caving, hiking, biking, rafting as well as excellent crafts. For fun and adventure, contact Swazi Trails, tel +268-416-2180 or web http://www.swazitrails.co.sz.
Tree huggers will love Phophonyane Lodge near Piggs Peak. Tel +268-437-1429 or web http://www.phophonyane.co.sz. For creative architecture, visit Hawane Resort near Malolotja Reserve. Tel +268-442-4744 or web http://www.hawane.co.sz. To be pampered, head for the Royal Swazi Spa, Ezulwini Valley. Tel 011-780-7800 or web http://www.suninternational.com.

Hawklee Country House, Nottingham Road, with romance in mind
After shopping up a storm along the Midlands Meander, chill out with your beloved at Hawklee. The four-star cottages have spa baths large enough for two and tantalising views over the Lions River.
Tel 033-266-6209 or web http://www.hawklee.co.za.

Timamoon, near Hazyview, with your lover
Venture to the evocative realm of Timamoon with only serious seduction in mind. This sexy hideaway overlooking the Sabie River, with loads of privacy, exotic dcor, and unbelievably good cuisine, is guaranteed to impress.
Tel 013-767-1740 or web http://www.timamoonlodge.co.za.

Franschhoek with an appetite
Foodies call this scenic Winelands village the culinary capital of South Africa for good reason. There are a host of excellent award-winning gourmet eateries to choose from, including Rubens, Le Quartier Francais and La Petite Ferme.
Tel 021-876-2136 or e-mail cindy@kingsley.co.za. For places to stay, eat and drink, tel 021-876-3603 or web http://www.franschhoek.org.za.

The Cradle Nature Reserve, Cradle of Humankind, with a bird book
You can bird watch, take guided game walks or drives and dine on inspired cuisine in this beautiful reserve. You’re also close to Sterkfontein, one of the world’s most exciting archaeological sites. Stay in cute forest chalets.
Tel 011-659-1622 or web http://www.thecradle.co.za.

Barrydale with a yoga mat
Boasting a labyrinth, peace pagoda, healing mineral baths and magical scenery, it’s no wonder a few days in Barrydale will leave you feeling rejuvenated.
There’s accommodation to suit all budgets. Tel 028-572-1572 or web http://www.barrydale.co.za.

Island Water Villa, near Memel, with your family
Who’d ever thought you’d find an island villa on a farm in the Free State? This stone-and-thatch cottage, with Oregon pine and stained-glass interiors, is set in the middle of a dam visited by many birds. You reach it via a 100-metre-long suspension bridge. The cottage sleeps up to 10.
Tel 058-924-0147 or web http://www.farmstay.co.za.

Cape Town with a longing for dramatic scenery
Sunset picnics on Llandudno beach, walking Lions Head by moonlight, seaside train trips to Simon’s Town, fresh croissants at the Olympia caf and lime chicken soup at Cape to Cuba these are just a few of my favourite things to do on holiday in Cape Town.
You can stay between mountain and sea on the cheap at Oatlands in Simon’s Town (tel 021-786-1410 or web http://www.oatlands.co.za) or the five-star way at the Twelve Apostles hotel near Oudekraal. DB&B from R895. Tel 021-437-9000 or web http://www.12apostleshotel.com.

NARINA EXELBY, SUB-EDITOR

Die Berghut, near Zastron with your imagination
Imagine a mountain hut – one with pink bed frills, a pink dustbin, floral curtains (pink, of course) and a hot shower that trickles off the rock. Then picture it built underneath a massive boulder, with views over the eastern Free State. What makes the place even more special is that the Berghut is brooded over by sandstone cliffs that you just have to explore.
Die Berghut sleeps four people. Tel 051-673-1414 or cell 082-347-4833.

King’s Grant, Ixopo, with your stressed-out self
If wandering between the old red-brick chapel, monks’ rooms and restored mill doesn’t soothe your soul, the exquisite gardens will inspire you to develop green fingers. King’s Grant offers complete peace.
Tel 039-834-2730, cell 076-909-5606, e-mail kingsgrant@futurenet.co.za or web http://www.kingsgrant.co.za.

Highover, near Richmond, with your family
Secluded cottages built beneath the towering cliffs of the Mkomazi valley, a nearby breeding ground for blue swallows, more gnarled old trees than you can count on all your kids’ fingers – what more could a nature-loving family ask for?
Tel 033-212-9411, e-mail highover@telkomsa.net or web http://www.highover.co.za.

Midmar Dam, near Howick, with your water toys and mates
Gather your friends, tents, mountain bikes, boats, kites, cricket bats and skottels and set up camp at the dam. There’s certainly plenty to keep everyone entertained.
Tel 033-845-1000, e-mail webmail@kznwildlife.com or web http://www.kznwildlife.com.

Tieties Bay at Cape Columbine Nature Reserve, near Paternoster, with your tent
Pitch your tent between the boulders – and almost between the waves – at Tieties Bay. Take your cozzie, bike, kayak, fishing rod and bird book, and be happy.
Tel 022-752-2718.

Mahai at Royal Natal, uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park, with your hiking boots
Park off beneath the mighty Amphitheatre, walk the many trails (some easy for kids and oldies, others more challenging) and skinny dip in the Berg’s streams. Pure weekend bliss.
Tel 033-845-1000, e-mail webmail@kznwildlife.com or web http://www.kznwildlife.com.

Nature’s Valley, near Plettenberg Bay, with your bird book
This secluded village tucked into a national park is a nature-lover’s haven. Spend days paddling up the Groot River, walking through pristine dune forest, watching birds or walking on the beach. Go out of season and you’ll hardly see another person.
Camp at De Vasselot. Tel 012-428-9111, e-mail reservations@sanparks.org or web http://www.sanparks.org. B&B at Tranquility Lodge. Tel 044-531-6663, e-mail book@tranquilitylodge.co.za or web http://www.tranquilitylodge.co.za.

Sycamore Avenue, near Mooi River, with your six-year-old self
Stay in a tree house straight out of a fairy-tale book, built by someone with a quirky sense of humour. It’s a fantasy world up there.
Tel 033-23-2875, e-mail sycamore@futurenet.co.za or web http://www.sycamore-ave.com.

The KZN Midlands with your bike
Base yourself in Howick and indulge in some of the best mountain-biking routes South Africa has to offer.
Self-cater at Umgeni Valley Nature Reserve. Tel 033-330-3931, e-mail reservations@wessa.co.za or web http://www.wildlifesociety.org.za.

Indigo Bay, Bazaruto Island, Mozambique, with your lover (and a bulging wallet)
It might be a resort, but Indigo Bay does privacy very well. The chalets are right on the beach and tucked into tropical gardens, the facilities are fab and the beach exquisite. A real treat. If you can afford it, the honeymoon suite is rather special.
Contact tel 011-465-6904, e-mail reservations@raniresorts.com or web http://www.indigobayresort.com.

PETER FROST, ASSISTANT EDITOR

Rissington Inn, Hazyview, with your sharpened wit
A good country hotel is all about its owners and Rissington is fortunate to have Chris Harvie as its guide and mentor. The bar’s fun, the food’s excellent, the rooms are enormous and he’s the happiest host you could want.
Tel 013-737-7700, e-mail info@rissington.co.za or visit the web http://www.rissingtoninn.co.za.

Celtis Lodge, Magaliesberg, with a dream catcher
This very chilled little spot in the mountains is ideal for getting back to a spiritual sense of wholeness, as they might say on the pages of Odyssey magazine. More practically, it has great thatch cottages, outside showers and – back to the spacey stuff – a stone labyrinth to get caught up in.
Tel 014-577-3952, e-mail info@celtislodge.co.za or web http://www.celtislodge.co.za.

Artists Caf, Hendriksdal, with your discarded china
This old Edwardian railway station has been converted into bedrooms (the Stationmaster’s Office, the Ticket Office and two Waiting Rooms) and the stationmaster’s house is a cosy and very popular restaurant. There’s a chinaware graveyard, believe it or not.
Tel 013-764-2309, e-mail artscafe@mweb.co.za or web http://www.wheretostay.co.za/artistscafe.

Jatinga Lodge, White River, with an appetite
Not since Jamie Oliver killed off nouvelle cuisine has there been greater reason for culinary celebration. Jatinga’s food is quite simply fabulous (try the sesame-coated prawns). So too are the high teas, gourmet picnics, award-winning gardens, spacious suites and the croquet lawn.
Tel 013-751-5059, e-mail info@jatinga.co.za or web http://www.jatinga.co.za.

Oudrif, Cederberg with a green beanie
Carefully crafted straw bale cottages set among the rocks of the Cederberg, next to the Doring River – what could be wilder and more perfect?
Tel 027-482-2397, e-mail moondance@49er.co.za or web http://www.oudrif.co.za.

Woodlands Cottage, Lammergeier Private Nature Reserve, Lady Grey, with your family
I’d been searching the country for years to find a spot like this. Woodlands sits all by itself next to a river; it’s quiet, has a big open lounge and dining room with a loft upstairs for the kids. There’s lots to do in the larger nature reserve. Take your mountain bikes.
Tel 051-603-1114, e-mail info@adventuretrails.co.za or web http://www.adventuretrails.co.za.

Old Jail, Philippolis, with a sense of humour
This really was the old jail and the developers have not made the mistake of over-renovating it, so you do get the feeling of being banged up in chookie. It has a lovely courtyard too (for daily exercise and a quick drink).
Tel 082-550-4421, e-mail stayinjail@mweb.co.za or web http://www.wheretostay.co.za/oldjail.

Oldenburg Lodge and Farm, Ladybrand, with your wellies
If you love those orangey pictures of beautiful Free State sandstone farmhouses and ever wondered how you can stay in one, then bingo. Oldenburg is a huge working farm, with guest rooms in the house and to one side. It’s quite basic, but the setting is superb – and steeped in history.
Tel 051-924-1316, e-mail oldenburg@xsinet.co.za or web http://www.oldenburglodge.com.

Jock Safari Lodge, Kruger National Park, with your annual bonus
It’s not cheap, but pampering these days rarely is. You do get your own private pool, huge suites, spa, Kruger all around you and the kind of endless attention the overseas market expects.
Tel 013-735-5200, e-mail reservations@jocksafarilodge.com or web http://www.jocksafarilodge.com.

Fair Hill Private Nature Reserve, Stanford, with a fynbos guidebook
Fair Hill’s coup de grce is its location above the quaint little town of Stanford, in the middle of fragrant fynbos. The suites are grand-sized and the sea breezes are free.
Tel 028-341-0230, e-mail info@fairhill.co.za or web http://www.fairhill.co.za.LEIGH STEFANSKI, WEB TEAM

Kosi Bay with a canoe
Explore the waterways of the Kosi Lake system in a canoe, go bird watching, forest walking or put your feet up with a book while staying at the romantic Kosi Forest Lodge.
Tel 035-474-1473, e-mail res@isibindiafrica.co.za or web http://www.isibindiafrica.co.za.

Madikwe Game Reserve with binoculars and a camera
Immerse yourself in Big Five territory and keep your eyes peeled for the renowned wild dogs.
Contact Madikwe Safaris, tel 011-315-6194, e-mail info@madikwesafaris.co.za or web http://www.madikwesafaris.co.za.

Stellenbosch with a wine glass (and KGB tablets)
Vineyards and mountains surround this historic and utterly beautiful town. Smell, taste and indulge in the liquid-of-the-gods of this bountiful wine area.
Tel 021-886-7662, e-mail res@beauclair.co.za or web http://www.beauclair.co.za.

Valley of a Thousand Hills, KZN, with wings
Spend an adrenaline-filled weekend in the sky, soaring in a microlight, gyrocopter, helicopter, biplane or skydiving.
Contact Sky Adventures on tel 073-334-7911, e-mail info@skyadventures.co.za or web http://www.skyadventures.co.za.

Wyndford Holiday Farm, near Fouriesburg, with a bird book and hiking boots
Nestled under the Rooiberg cliffs, Wyndford has the whole family entertained with walking, birding, horse riding, fishing, mountain biking and, of course, eating.
Tel 058-223-0274, e-mail reception@wyndford.co.za or web http://www.wynford.co.za.

Stilbaai with a braai and a bunch of friends
Pack the gang in the car and head off to Stilbaai for a weekend of braaiing, fishing, watersports and sunshine.
For accommodation, contact Stilbaai Tourism on tel 028-754-2602, e-mail infosb@telkomsa.net or web http://www.stilbaaitourism.com.

Route 62, Little Karoo, with driving tunes
Take a road trip down Route 62 through magnificent landscapes, quaint towns, fruit orchards, vineyards and indigenous flora. There’s no shortage of things to do along the way. Go where the wind takes you, or plan your route with http://www.-route62.co.za.
Tel 023-614-3125, e-mail res@montagucountryhotel.co.za or web http://www.montagucountryhotel.co.za.

Nan Hua Buddhist Temple, Bronkhorstspruit, with a yoga mat
Nan Hua offers meditation retreats to learn the art of meditation to relax, rejuvenate and escape from everyday stresses. Or just stay in the guesthouse for absolute peace and quiet.
Tel 013-931-0009, e-mail nanhua-info@gmail.com or web http://www.nanhua.co.za.

Golden Gate Highlands National Park with a camera and hiking boots
The park takes its name from the sun dancing on the impressive sandstone cliffs; it makes for some extraordinary walks with tapestry views.
Tel 058-255-0012 or web http://www.sanparks.org/parks/golden_gate.

Fish Hoek with whale-watching eyes
Fish Hoek is a cosy village and prime whale-watching spot from June to November. Also watch the traditional trek fishers in action hauling their catch onto the beach.

GERRIT RAUTENBACH, EDITOR, WEGBREEK

Stone Cottage, Deneysville, with your boat
This unpretentious 1940s cottage is cosy and charming and the service is excellent. There is a private garden with braai facilities.
Tel 016-371-2455, cell 083-379-4626 or e-mail annalized@blick.co.za.

Hoekfontein Ox Wagon Camp, Ficksburg, with a memory of the past
Choose between standard ox wagons (sleep eight) or the honeymoon wagon. There’s hiking, swimming, volleyball, pool, slip-and-slide, rock art, abseiling, tractor rides, a wagon-wheel challenge and paint ball.
Tel 051-933 -915 or e-mail oxwagon@-telkomsa.net.

Umshanti, near Swellendam, with all your water toys
On the shore of Buffeljags Dam near Swellendam is one of South Africa’s best-kept secrets. Umshanti offers very reasonable accommodation in self-catering cottages, and water sport deluxe. There’s also a 120-metre-long foefie slide, canoes, kloofing and mountain biking (not in the water).
Tel/fax 028-512-3787, cell 082-444-4551 or web http://www.deadduck.co.za/ads/buffeljagswatersport.

Afri-Ski Leisure Kingdom, Mahlasela, Lesotho with your snow shoes and woollies
In the Mahlasela valley in the heart of Lesotho, you can enjoy winter-time skiing at 3?222 metres above sea level, as well as unsurpassed mountain leisure. Remember to fill up at Bethlehem or Fouriesburg to enable you to get to Afri-Ski and back! And take your passport.
Tel 011-888-1263 or web http://www.afriski.co.za.

The Doring River, Cederberg, with a thirst for adventure
Head to Wildthing Adventures’s base camp in the northern Cederberg mountain range for a two-day, two-night white-water rafting blast down the Doring River. Sleep in tented safari camps.
Contact Nick Louw on tel 083-303-3000, e-mail info@wildthing.co.za or web http://www.wildthing.co.za.

Roosje van de Kaap Guest House and Restaurant, Swellendam, with a thick book and big appetite
As soon as you arrive at Roosje, no matter how tired you are, you’ll feel restored in body and soul. Enjoy the culinary delights in a restaurant so cosy, it doesn’t even have electricity.
Tel 028-514-3001, e-mail roosje@dorea.co.za or web http://www.roosjevandekaap.com.

Karkloof with your buddies
Seven platforms and eight foefie slides, the longest of which is over 170 metres! High up in the tree tops in the indigenous forest near Howick. Get deep into the bush without destroying the undergrowth. And when the adrenaline is done, come down to earth at the Thistledown Country House.
Tel 033-330-2629, e-mail info@thistledown.co.za or web http://www.thistledown.co.za. For Karkloof Canopy Tours, tel 033-330-3415, e-mail info@karkloofcanopytour.co.za or visit the web http://www.karkloofcanopytour.co.za.

Doringkloof Bush Camp, Baviaanskloof, with your 4×4
Doringkloof is one of several ‘perfect’ bases from which to explore Baviaanskloof and take on the 4×4 trails. Each camp site has a braai place, water, lights and a 220 V power point. And hot water showers! Activities include hiking, bird watching, rock art, off-road routes. Donkey-cart rides can be arranged on request.
Tel 049-839-1160, e-mail 4×4@baviaans.co.za.

Kambrokind Guest House, Sutherland, with stars in your eyes
Enjoy the four stars of Kambrokind while gazing at the others in the coldest place in South Africa. Enquire about their stargazing tours.
Contact Rita and Jurg Wagener at tel 023-571-1405, cell 082-556-9589, e-mail info@sutherlandinfo.co.za or web http://www.sutherlandinfo.co.za.

Lapalala, Waterberg, with a desire to learn about the bush
Informative, exciting, entertaining and affordable. Learn more about the bush as you relax on a weekend away, three hours from Joburg. There is accommocation for only 28 people in the 36?000-hectare reserve.
Tel 014 755 4395/6, e-mail reservations@lapalala.com or web http://www.lapalala.com.

SO WHERE’S NUMBER 101?

The answer might surprise you, but it will also be a huge relief if you’re short on budget after trying all the other weekends.

Take a holiday at home with yourself (or whoever lives with you).

We’re so often in the mode of ‘go out and do, do, do’ that we forget to enjoy the pleasures of simply being home for a whole weekend – with everything that you need and everyone you love around you.

Practise the art of ‘hermitting’ for a few weekends a year. The rules are simple:

• Put up an imaginary ‘gone fishing’ sign and secretly stay at home the whole weekend.
• Don’t make any plans with people living outside your house.
• Reduce distractions: switch off your cell, pull out your phone line and disconnect your gate buzzer.
• Don’t drive anywhere. If you get cabin fever go out on foot only – walk to the park/beach/mountain (whatever is closest), browse your local antique, craft or book shop (no serious shopping though).

So what can you do at home? Simply, whatever you most enjoy. Potter about and plant things in the garden, try a new gourmet recipe, dance up a frenzy to your favourite music, take long aromatherapy baths, get romantic with your beloved, play board games with your co-habitants, pitch a tent in the garden and sleep there, read a good novel or magazine, get creative with paint or beads, practise your yoga/kung fu/stretching/Tai chi moves or hop on your home exercise bike. If you follow all the above ‘rules’ of hermitting, you’re bound to feel pleasantly restored at the end of the weekend.